How Regular Fasting Brings Endless Rewards

How Regular Fasting Brings Endless Rewards

Fasting is one of the most revered and significant acts of worship in Islam. Throughout the year, fasting has been prescribed in various forms, with the most famous being during the month of Ramadan.

However, voluntary fasting outside of Ramadan holds immense value in Islam. Regular fasting is not only a means of self-discipline but also an act that brings boundless rewards from Allah (SWT). In this blog post, we will explore how regular fasting brings endless rewards, with references from the Quran and Hadith in both Arabic and English.

The Rewards of Fasting in Islam

Fasting is a means of seeking closeness to Allah (SWT) and purifying the soul. It is an act of worship that requires self-discipline, patience, and mindfulness. Whether it is fasting during Ramadan, voluntary fasting during other months, or fasting on specific days recommended in Hadith, all forms of fasting bring immense rewards.

The Quran speaks about the significance of fasting in the context of Ramadan:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:183)
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.”

This verse emphasizes the connection between fasting and righteousness (taqwa). Fasting is not only about abstaining from food and drink; it is a path to spiritual purification, drawing closer to Allah (SWT). This connection between fasting and taqwa extends to regular fasting as well, making it a continuous means of attaining Allah’s pleasure and rewards.

The rewards of fasting, as mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, extend beyond the mere act of abstaining from food. The essence of fasting lies in the self-control, discipline, and dedication it requires to remain devoted to Allah (SWT).

Fasting as a Means of Forgiveness of Sins

One of the most significant rewards of fasting is that it serves as a means of forgiveness of sins. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said in a Hadith:

“من صام رمضان إيمانًا واحتسابًا غفر له ما تقدم من ذنبه”
(Sahih Bukhari)
“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven.”

This Hadith highlights the immense reward of fasting in Ramadan—complete forgiveness for one’s previous sins. However, voluntary fasting also carries similar rewards, as it brings the individual closer to Allah (SWT) and allows them to seek forgiveness.

In another Hadith, the Prophet (PBUH) said:

“الصيام جُنَّة، فإذا كان يوم صوم أحدكم فلا يرفث ولا يجهل، فإن سابه أحد أو قاتله فليقل إني صائم”
(Sahih Bukhari)
“Fasting is a shield, so when one of you is fasting, let him not engage in obscene speech or quarrel. If someone tries to argue with him or fight with him, let him say, ‘I am fasting.'”

This Hadith teaches that fasting serves as a shield from sins, particularly the negative actions of the tongue and heart. By abstaining from food and drink, the fasting person gains spiritual protection, and their sins are forgiven as they avoid falling into sinful behavior.

Through voluntary fasting, a person can continue to purify themselves and seek Allah’s forgiveness, building a habit of self-restraint and increasing their chances of receiving Allah’s mercy.

The Reward of Fasting on Specific Days

Islam encourages fasting on specific days throughout the year, each carrying its own distinct rewards. Some of the recommended fasting days include:

• The Six Days of Shawwal: Fasting the six days after Ramadan is highly recommended. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“من صام رمضان ثم أتبعه ستًا من شوال كان كصيام الدهر”
(Sahih Muslim)
“Whoever fasts Ramadan and then follows it with six days of Shawwal, it is as if he has fasted for an entire year.”

Fasting these six days brings the reward of fasting for a full year. This is an incredible reward, highlighting the significance of voluntary fasting after Ramadan. The Hadith emphasizes that these six days do not just bring rewards, but they offer a complete spiritual renewal, helping the individual remain steadfast in their worship throughout the year.

• Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) regularly fasted on Mondays and Thursdays, as reported in the Hadith:

“كان النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يتحرى صيام الإثنين والخميس”
(Sahih Muslim)
“The Prophet (PBUH) used to fast on Mondays and Thursdays.”

The reason for fasting on these days, according to the Hadith, is that the deeds of the week are presented to Allah (SWT) on these days, and the Prophet (PBUH) sought to be in a state of fasting when his deeds were presented. Fasting on Mondays and Thursdays is a way of purifying one’s deeds and seeking Allah’s favor.

• The Day of Arafah: Fasting on the Day of Arafah is highly recommended for those who are not performing Hajj. The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“صيام يوم عرفة أحتسب على الله أن يكفر السنة التي قبله والسنة التي بعده”
(Sahih Muslim)
“Fasting on the Day of Arafah is a means of expiating the sins of the previous year and the coming year.”

This day holds great significance, and fasting on this day brings a double reward: the forgiveness of sins from the past year and the upcoming year.

• The Day of Ashura: The Prophet (PBUH) also encouraged fasting on the Day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram:

“صيام يوم عاشوراء أحتسب على الله أن يكفر السنة التي قبله”
(Sahih Muslim)
“Fasting on the Day of Ashura is a means of expiating the sins of the previous year.”

This day is another opportunity for Muslims to gain the reward of forgiveness for their sins, especially when coupled with fasting.

These days, among others, are recommended as part of voluntary fasting in Islam. Fasting on these days brings immense rewards, and it’s a way for Muslims to gain the spiritual benefits of regular fasting, even outside of the month of Ramadan.

Fasting Protects the Body and Soul

Regular fasting has numerous benefits, not only on the soul but also on the body. Fasting strengthens one’s willpower and leads to better self-control, helping Muslims avoid indulgence in worldly desires. Fasting teaches patience, humility, and self-restraint, all of which are essential to developing a strong character and spiritual focus.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated:

“الصوم نصف الصبر”
(Sahih Bukhari)
“Fasting is half of patience.”

This Hadith indicates that fasting is an act that requires tremendous patience. It encourages the individual to remain calm and in control, even in difficult situations. Regular fasting enhances the person’s ability to endure hardships and remain patient, ultimately leading to a stronger, more resilient soul.

Additionally, fasting is beneficial for physical health. While the primary purpose of fasting is spiritual, numerous studies have shown that fasting can have positive effects on physical health. It helps regulate metabolism, promote detoxification, and improve overall well-being. Fasting allows the body to rejuvenate, which is one of the reasons it has been prescribed as an act of worship in Islam.

The Ultimate Reward: Paradise

The ultimate reward for fasting is the promise of Paradise (Jannah). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“لِلصَّائِمِ فَرْحَتَانِ فَرْحَةٌ عِندَ فِطْرِهِ وَفَرْحَةٌ عِندَ لِقَاءِ رَبِّهِ”
(Sahih Bukhari)
“The fasting person has two moments of joy: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord.”

This Hadith emphasizes that fasting brings great joy to the believer. When they break their fast, they experience the happiness of having completed their act of worship and fulfilled their duty. However, the ultimate joy comes when the fasting person meets their Creator on the Day of Judgment, where they will be rewarded with Paradise for their devotion and sacrifice.

Regular fasting, whether it’s during Ramadan or through voluntary fasts, is a means of earning the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and ensuring a place in Jannah. The continuous practice of fasting keeps the believer connected to their faith, strengthening their resolve and devotion.

Conclusion: The Endless Rewards of Regular Fasting

Regular fasting is one of the most powerful and rewarding practices in Islam. Through fasting, a Muslim purifies their soul, develops self-discipline, and earns the pleasure of Allah (SWT). Whether it is fasting during Ramadan, on Mondays and Thursdays, or on special days like the Day of Arafah or Ashura, each fast brings endless rewards—both spiritual and worldly. Fasting serves as a shield from sins, a means of forgiveness, and a path to Paradise.

The Quran and Hadith have clearly outlined the importance of fasting, its numerous benefits, and the immense rewards it brings. Fasting not only brings the believer closer to Allah (SWT) but also strengthens their character, enhances patience, and promotes physical well-being. By regularly fasting, a Muslim can live a life of devotion, spiritual growth, and closeness to Allah, reaping the endless rewards that fasting offers. May Allah (SWT) grant us the strength to fast regularly and attain His blessings and mercy.